Collagen stimulators

Collagen stimulators are modern injectable treatments that stimulate the natural regeneration of the skin and the production of collagen. Their effect develops gradually, with a visible improvement in skin firmness, volume and quality.

Prices of collagen stimulators

The price depends on the product, the quantity (number of millilitres) and the area being treated. The exact plan and required amount are determined after a consultation, in accordance with the facial anatomy and the desired effect.

ProductPrice
HarmonyCa 1.25 ml32.000 RSD
HarmonyCa 2.5 ml60.000 RSD
Karisma24.000 RSD
Ellansé (1 ml)36.000 RSD
Radiesse (1.5 ml)40.000 RSD
Neck lift – neck with collagen stimulator and hyaluronic acid35.000 RSD

Prices are in dinars. Payment by card in instalments is also available.

Collagen stimulators – in brief

What they areInjectable products that stimulate the body's own collagen production
ApplicationFace and body
Choice of productDepends on the treatment area and goal
AnaesthesiaUsed
Duration of treatmentUp to 60 minutes
Number of treatmentsDepends on the product; often two visits a few weeks apart
ResultDevelops gradually: first changes after a few weeks, with full effect over several months
Duration of resultsSeveral months, depending on the product, treatment area and skin

Gradual improvement in skin quality

Collagen naturally decreases in the skin with age, leading to a loss of firmness, elasticity and volume. Collagen stimulators work by encouraging the skin's own regenerative processes, without sudden changes and without disrupting the natural appearance. Unlike treatments that provide an immediate effect, the results of collagen stimulators develop gradually. Over time, there is an improvement in the skin's structure, density and resilience, which is reflected in a fresher and more rested appearance. This approach is particularly suitable for people who want a discreet improvement in their appearance, without pronounced changes, while preserving their natural facial contours. The effect is not immediate, but it is longer-lasting and contributes to the quality of the skin, rather than just volume. Collagen stimulators are used for both the face and certain areas of the body, depending on indications and individual needs, following a prior consultation and treatment plan.

 

Collagen stimulators

Collagen stimulators are injectable treatments used to stimulate the natural production of collagen in the skin. They are injected into the dermis or subcutaneous tissue, where their active substances act on fibroblasts – the cells responsible for collagen synthesis.

Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, whose primary role is to restore volume, collagen stimulators have a different mechanism of action. Their goal is not an immediate change in volume, but the gradual improvement of skin quality through biostimulation.

Depending on the product, the most commonly used active substances are:

  • calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
  • poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
  • polycaprolactone (PCL)
  • hybrid formulas combining hyaluronic acid and a stimulator

After injection, these substances trigger a controlled regeneration process, during which new collagen is formed. As a result, the skin becomes denser, firmer, and more elastic, with a gradual improvement in its appearance.

The effects develop over time and depend on the type of product, the treatment area and the individual characteristics of the patient. Precisely because of this mechanism of action, collagen stimulators are classified as treatments that affect skin quality, rather than just its volume.

Following injection, the collagen stimulator is distributed within the skin layer into which it was injected (most commonly the dermis or subcutaneous tissue). There, it does not act as a “filler”, but rather as a biologically active substance that triggers the body's reaction.

The body recognises the presence of the material and activates fibroblasts – cells responsible for producing collagen. In response to this stimulation, fibroblasts begin to form new collagen fibres around the application site.

In the first few days after the treatment there are no pronounced changes as the process takes place at a microscopic level. Over the following weeks, there is a gradual accumulation of new collagen, which alters the skin structure – it becomes denser and more compact.

This change in structure leads to visible effects:

  • the skin gains greater firmness as there are more supporting fibres
  • elasticity improves, so the skin “reacts” better to movement
  • minor surface imperfections become less noticeable
  • the contours appear more stable due to better internal support

It is important to emphasise that different collagen stimulators operate on a similar principle, but differ in the strength of stimulation and the speed at which results develop. Some produce a milder and more gradual effect, whilst others have a more pronounced impact on skin structure.

Due to this mechanism of action, the result is not immediate and does not depend on the amount of material, but rather on the body's reaction and the process of new collagen formation that takes place over time.

Collagen stimulators have a specific mode of action that sets them apart from other aesthetic treatments. Their greatest advantage is that they affect skin quality through the skin's own regenerative processes, rather than just providing a temporary visual effect.

One of the key benefits is the natural look of the results. Changes occur gradually as new collagen is produced in the skin, so the face does not look “done”, but rather more rested and fresher. This approach makes it possible to preserve natural features and facial expressions.

Another important feature is the gradual development of the effect. Following the treatment, there are no sudden changes, but rather the improvement is seen over time. This is particularly suitable for people who want discreet results without visible transitions.

Collagen stimulators are also known for the longevity of their results. As the effect is based on newly formed collagen, the improvement can last longer compared to treatments that provide exclusively immediate volume. The duration depends on the type of product, the treatment area and individual skin characteristics.

Additional benefits include:

  • improvement of skin density and structure
  • greater resilience and elasticity
  • more even and higher-quality skin appearance
  • suitability for use on face and body

Due to these characteristics, collagen stimulators are a good choice for people who want a longer-term improvement in skin quality, with a natural and gradual development of results.

Collagen stimulators before and after

Collagen stimulators encourage the production of the body's own collagen, so the result develops gradually. The photographs show the face and neck before and after treatment: the skin is firmer, and the facial and neck contours are tighter.

Number of treatments

Often two visits a few weeks apart

Full effect

Over the course of several months

Duration of results

Several months, depending on the product and region

Which collagen stimulators do we use?

HArmonyCa is a hybrid collagen stimulator that combines hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite. It is precisely this combination that sets it apart from other treatments – it acts simultaneously on tissue structure and skin quality.

After injection, the hyaluronic component provides immediate support in areas where support has weakened, most commonly in the cheek area and along the jawline. At the same time, calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres trigger the process of new collagen creation, which develops over the following weeks.

What makes HArmonyCa unique is precisely this dual effect – the initial stabilisation of contours and the gradual improvement in skin firmness. As collagen forms over time, the skin gains better structure and resilience, and its appearance becomes more even and defined.

Because of this mode of action, HArmonyCa is the treatment of choice when it is necessary to improve both tissue support and skin quality at the same time, without sudden changes in appearance.

Karisma is a collagen stimulator that works through a carefully balanced combination of three ingredients – collagen, hyaluronic acid, and carboxymethylcellulose. This combination enables the simultaneous improvement of hydration, structure, and regenerative processes in the skin.

Its uniqueness lies in the use of collagen whose structure is very close to human type I collagen. After being injected into the middle or deeper layer of the dermis, this ingredient acts as a signal to fibroblasts to start more intensive production of their own collagen. At the same time, hyaluronic acid contributes to better hydration, while carboxymethylcellulose slows down its degradation and prolongs the effect in the skin.

Unlike volumising treatments, Karisma focuses on skin quality. It is used in areas where changes are subtle yet visible – on the face, neck and décolletage, as well as for skin that has lost its tone or shows fine lines, scars or textural irregularities.

After the treatment, the skin becomes more hydrated, elastic and even. The effect develops over time, without sudden changes, which contributes to a natural appearance. It is particularly suitable for people who want a discreet improvement and the preservation of skin quality, without pronounced volume.

The treatment is usually carried out in a series of two visits a few weeks apart, while the effects are maintained for months with the possibility of occasional maintenance.

AesPlla is a collagen stimulator based on poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), designed for a more pronounced improvement in skin structure and the gradual restoration of volume. Unlike treatments that provide an immediate effect, AesPlla works by stimulating the body to build its own new network of collagen.

After injection into the deeper layers of the skin, PLLA particles trigger a process that takes place over time. Over the coming weeks and months, new collagen is produced, which affects the firmness, density and support of the tissue. Precisely for this reason, the changes do not happen suddenly, but develop gradually and become increasingly pronounced as the process progresses.

This treatment is used when there are more pronounced changes in facial structure, such as volume loss in the cheeks or temples, or sagging in the lower third of the face. In addition to the face, it can also be applied to the body, in areas where there has been a loss of skin tone and firmness.

Another distinctive feature of AesPlla is the aftercare – it is essential that the product is evenly distributed throughout the tissue, which is why massage is advised in the days following the treatment. This step is important for the proper development of the effect.

Results start to become visible after a few weeks, while the full effect develops over several months. The result is stable and long-lasting, as it is based on newly formed collagen and a change in the skin structure itself.

AesPlla is the choice when the goal is a deeper improvement in skin support and quality, with a gradual and long-lasting result.

Lanluma is a collagen stimulator based on poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), designed for a more pronounced improvement in skin firmness and the gradual restoration of volume. What sets it apart is that it comes in two formulations, so it can be used on both the face and larger areas of the body.

After injection into the deeper layers of the skin or subcutaneous tissue, PLLA particles act as a scaffold around which a new network of collagen is formed over time. This process takes place gradually, so the changes also develop over time – the skin becomes firmer, more resilient and better defined.

Lanluma V is designed for the face, neck and décolletage, where it is used to improve skin structure, as well as in regions such as the cheeks and temples, where volume has been lost. The effect is discreet and gradual, with a focus on tissue quality and stability.

Lanluma X is a higher-concentration formulation designed for body treatments. It is used in areas where it is necessary to improve volume and tone, such as the buttocks, thighs or upper arms. In these areas, it enables gradual shaping and skin tightening through the body's own collagen production.

Unlike treatments that provide an immediate effect, Lanluma relies on an ongoing process – the results develop over several months and are maintained long-term, as they are based on newly formed collagen.

Because of this feature, Lanluma is the choice when the goal is a more pronounced improvement in structure and volume, both on the face and on the body, with a gradual and natural development of results.

Ellansé is a collagen stimulator that stands out for the way it combines an immediate effect with long-term improvement in skin structure. Its composition allows the result to be seen immediately after injection, whilst further improvement develops over the subsequent period thanks to the generation of new collagen.

Following injection, the gel carrier provides initial support to the tissue and helps fill areas where volume has been lost. At the same time, polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres act as a stimulant for fibroblasts, thereby initiating the process of collagen production which, over time, takes over the role of the initial volume.

This transition from the material to one's own tissue is what makes Ellansé unique – the result is not suddenly lost, but is gradually maintained through a change in the skin structure.

Ellansé is most commonly used in areas where more precise definition and stable support are needed, such as the cheeks, nasolabial folds, jawline and chin, as well as the temple area. It is also suitable for the treatment of the hands, where it contributes to a more even skin appearance.

Unlike poly-L-lactic acid-based stimulators, intensive massage is not required after this treatment, and the volume remains stable from the very beginning. This allows for greater control over the result and clearer contouring.

The duration of the effect depends on the chosen formulation and can be tailored to individual needs, as there are variants that differ in the length of their action.

Radiesse

Radiesse is a collagen stimulator based on calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), a substance naturally present in the body. Its special feature is that it simultaneously provides tissue support and stimulates the production of new collagen, thereby affecting both the structure and quality of the skin.

Following injection, the gel carrier provides initial stability in the treated area, while the calcium microspheres act on fibroblasts and trigger the production of collagen and elastin. As the carrier gradually degrades, the newly formed tissue takes over its role, thereby maintaining the achieved result.

What sets Radiesse apart is its flexibility in application. Depending on the method of preparation, it can be used to define facial contours more clearly, such as the jawline and chin, but also for improving skin quality when applied in a diluted form. In that case, it does not affect volume, but rather the firmness, elasticity and texture of the skin.

It is most commonly used in the lower third of the face, as well as on the hands, where it contributes to a more even skin appearance. It is also suitable for treatments of the neck and décolletage when the goal is to improve skin tone and quality.

Unlike poly-L-lactic acid-based stimulators, intensive massage is not required after treatment, and the structure of the preparation allows for even distribution within the tissue. The results develop through a combination of initial support and subsequent biostimulation and typically last for several months.

Radiesse is the choice when a stable and precisely controlled effect is needed, along with the simultaneous improvement of skin quality.

We recommend planning your injectable treatment at least two weeks before an important event. If a series of treatments is required, the plan should start earlier to allow enough time for the full effect to develop.

Juvelook is a collagen stimulator based on poly-D,L-lactic acid (PDLLA), designed to improve skin quality. Alongside PDLLA, it also contains non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, which immediately restores hydration to the skin, while the real effect builds up over the coming months. Unlike stimulators that work on volume and tissue support, Juvelook is injected into the deeper layer of the skin itself. There, PDLLA particles gradually encourage fibroblasts to build new collagen, so the skin becomes denser, more even and more resilient — without changing facial contours. The special shape of the PDLLA particle, which is smooth on the outside and porous on the inside, allows for an even distribution through the tissue and a mild skin reaction. Because of this, massage of the treated area is not required after Juvelook, unlike preparations based on poly-L-lactic acid. It is most commonly used for uneven texture, enlarged pores, acne scars and thin skin — including the eye area, where most stronger preparations are not suitable. It is also applied to the neck, décolletage and hands. The standard protocol is three sessions spaced six weeks apart, and the result is maintained for up to around 16 months. Find out more about the Juvelook treatment

Collagen stimulators also include Lenisna (Juvelook Volume). More detailed information about this preparation, its application and the course of treatment can be found on a separate page. The doctor chooses the product after a consultation.

Comparison of collagen stimulators

  • Composition: hyaluronic acid + calcium hydroxylapatite (hybrid)
  • Effect: Immediate contour support + long-term firmness.
  • Duration: About 18 months.
  • Ideal for: Improving skin tone and restoring volume to the outer face.
  • Composition: recombinant human collagen + hyaluronic acid
  • Effect: Improves texture, smooths out fine lines and provides a glow.
  • Duration: 6–12 months.
  • Ideal for: Facial rejuvenation without changing shape.
  • Composition: PLLA (Poly-L-lactic acid)
  • Effect: Gradual volume and tone.
  • Duration: Over 2 years.
  • Ideal for: Hollow cheeks and body tightening (buttocks, knees).
  • Composition: PCL (Polycaprolactone)
  • Effect: Immediately plumps, and later stimulates collagen production.
  • Duration: Between 1 and 4 years (depending on the version).
  • Ideal for: Cheekbones and chin.
  • Composition: CaHA (calcium hydroxylapatite)
  • Effect: Firms the skin and defines facial contours.
  • Duration: 12–18 months.
  • Ideal for: Jawline, neck and hands.
  •  Composition: PDLLA (poly-D,L-lactic acid) + non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid
  • Effect: Improves skin texture, density and tone without changing volume.
  • Duration: Up to 16 months.
  • Ideal for: Enlarged pores, acne scars, thin skin and the eye area.
  • Composition: PDLLA and non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid.
  • Purpose: gradual improvement of tissue support, fullness and quality.

Lenisna collagen stimulator

Have a question?

Answers to frequently asked questions

Hyaluronic acid fillers provide immediate facial volume. Collagen stimulators (such as Lanluma, Radiesse or Karisma) work differently: they signal your body to produce new collagen on its own. The result is more natural, firmer and lasts considerably longer.

It depends on the goal. Hyaluronic acid fillers are used for quick volume correction, while collagen stimulators work longer-term by improving skin quality.

The treatment begins with a skin examination and the selection of an appropriate product according to the region and the goal. After that, the product is injected into specific layers of the skin, most commonly using a thin needle or cannula.

The procedure itself takes about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Mild discomfort may be felt during the treatment, but a local anaesthetic is used if necessary to make the procedure more comfortable.

Following the treatment, mild redness, swelling or tenderness at the injection site is possible, which usually subsides within a few days. With certain stimulators, massage of the treated area in the days following the treatment may also be recommended, so that the product is distributed evenly.

Patients usually return to their everyday activities shortly after treatment, while following basic recommendations in the first few days.

That depends on the product. With hybrids such as HArmonyCa or Ellansé, you see tightening immediately. With pure stimulators like AesPlla/Lanluma, the collagen production process takes 4–12 weeks, so the full effect is visible after 2–3 months.

The duration of the results depends on the product. In most cases, the effects last from several months to two years, as they are based on newly formed collagen.

For Radiesse or HArmonyCa, a single treatment is often enough. For Lanluma or Karisma, a series of 2 to 3 treatments spaced a month apart is usually recommended for maximum effect.

The treatment is carried out with minimal discomfort. Before the treatment, an anaesthetic cream is applied to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.

Recovery is quick. Mild swelling, redness or tenderness may occur at the injection site, which subside within a few days.

In the first few days after the treatment, it is recommended to avoid activities that may put extra strain on the treated area or increase swelling.

This includes:

  • strenuous physical activity in the first 24–48 hours
  • exposure to high temperatures (sauna, sunbed, hot baths)
  • direct unprotected sun exposure
  • massage of or pressure on the treated area, unless otherwise recommended
  • alcohol consumption immediately after the treatment

With certain collagen stimulators, a special massage technique may also be recommended in the days following the treatment, for which precise instructions are provided.

Adherence to these recommendations contributes to the even distribution of the product and optimal development of the results.

People who notice a loss of skin firmness, elasticity or quality, as well as those who want a gradual and natural improvement in their appearance without sudden changes.

They do not change natural facial features. Their effect is aimed at skin quality and tissue support, so the result looks natural and subtle.

The face, neck and décolletage are most commonly treated, as well as certain areas of the body such as the hands, upper arms, stomach or thighs, depending on the product.

Most stimulators (such as Radiesse or Lanluma) are biocompatible and biodegradable, which means that the body absorbs them naturally. The risk of allergies is extremely low. Karisma is particularly safe because it uses recombinant human collagen that is identical to our own.

Yes. They differ in composition, stimulation strength, application areas, and duration of effect. Some are focused more on skin quality, while others also affect volume and structure.

People over 30 who experience skin sagging, loss of facial fat, or thin, wrinkled skin on the neck and décolletage. To find out how collagen stimulators are combined with other treatments for this area, see our page about neck and décolletage rejuvenation.

They are most commonly mild and temporary – swelling, redness, bruising or sensitivity at the treatment site. More serious complications are rare when the treatment is performed correctly.

The risk is minimal if the treatment is performed by a trained doctor. With PLLA-based products (Lanluma/AesPlla), it is crucial to follow the massage rule (5-5-5) for the first few days so that the material is distributed evenly.

Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, collagen stimulators have no dissolving enzyme. Therefore, it is crucial to choose an experienced practitioner who will dose the product correctly, as the results last a long time and cannot be reversed overnight.

Following treatment with collagen stimulators, mild and transient reactions may occur, which are common for injection procedures. These most frequently involve redness, mild swelling, or sensitivity in the injection area, which subside spontaneously within a few days.

In certain cases, minor bruising or a feeling of tightness may also occur, especially in the first few days following the treatment. These changes are temporary and are part of the normal tissue reaction process to the injected preparation.

With certain collagen stimulators, particularly those based on poly-L-lactic acid, there is a possibility of small nodules forming if the product is not distributed evenly within the tissue. Therefore, it is important to follow post-treatment recommendations, including any massage when indicated.

More serious complications are rare, but, as with all injectable treatments, proper technique and experience are needed to keep the risk to a minimum. The correct choice of product, region and method of application are key to a safe and predictable result.

This page contains photographs of the treatments, and in the texts about individual preparations you can find out more about their application. Our facial contouring page also explains how HArmonyCa is used.

Collagen stimulator treatment is not recommended for individuals who have active infections or inflammatory skin processes in the area to be treated, as this can increase the risk of adverse reactions and complicate recovery. Additionally, for individuals with autoimmune diseases in an active phase, it is necessary to postpone the treatment until the condition stabilises.

Special care is necessary for individuals with a tendency to form keloids or prominent scars, as well as those with blood clotting disorders or undergoing anticoagulant therapy, where an additional assessment is required before making a decision on treatment.

The treatment is not carried out during pregnancy and the breastfeeding period, nor in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity to any of the preparation's components. In situations where other aesthetic or dermatological treatments, such as laser treatments or chemical peels, have recently been performed in the same region, it is necessary to wait an appropriate interval before planning a new procedure.

It is important to bear in mind that the choice of product and treatment area depends on individual skin characteristics, which is why a pre-treatment assessment is crucial for a safe and optimal result.

Book a collagen stimulator treatment in Belgrade

Imedic poliklinika is located at Kneza Miloša 23, 2nd floor, Belgrade. Opening hours: Monday–Sunday, 9:00–21:00.

Appointments can be booked by phone: 064 237 0707. If you contact us from abroad, we are also available via Viber and WhatsApp on the same number.

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Picture of Autor: Dr Ivica Jeremić

Author: Dr Ivica Jeremić

PhD in Medical Sciences (Molecular Medicine and Immunology), rheumatology subspecialist, dermatology resident.

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